Wednesday, May 18, 2011

After lunch, we rushed to one of the famous place in Vigan – Baluarte, the fortress of Vigan, owned by the famous Chavit Singson. It is a park with mini zoo perfect for the whole family. One best thing about it is you can visit there for free. They also have some picnic huts if you decide to have your lunch there while enjoying the sceneries with rare live animals.

The landmark of the park

Before we entered the place we signed up the visitors’ logbook. At the entrance of the park, we saw some colorful birds wherein you can have photos with them. You can put them on your shoulders or even at the top of your head. Did I say it’s also free? Not quite, but all you have to give is at least a “tip” for its caretakers.

Guestbook sign-up at the entrance

Colorful birds for photo opts

Cutie birdie saying "Hello" at the entrance

Welcome to a place called Baluarte

A bunch of miniature horses welcomed us. They have carriers so we can have a ride with them together with its driver just like a mini-kalesa. Off we went, we were toured around the main grounds. We also met some animals roaming freely within the vicinity. Did I say again that it’s free? Not quite, you just have to give “tip” for the driver after we were dropped back to the starting line.

Miniature horses for a ride

Joy ride with the miniature horse

Our friendly miniature friend

Back to the starting line

Feeding the camel

One of the attractions here is their own version of animal show wherein they showcase their trained domesticated pets with some audience participation. Since we came all the way from the home of the Champions (Gensan), we were like instant celebrity and were given privilege to meet and greet the live animals in the show.

Getting ready for the show

My turn for the show

The eagle on my arm

Yes! An eagle it is!

Fearless me!

The proud volunteers

Preparing for the unknown

My oh my! It's a huge snake!

Reverse position, aw-right!

The tiger & Chavit

The tiger in the cage

The place was so huge and its landmark is also huge. It’s as big as the replica of dinosaur residing beside it. On its side is a man-made water falls which is very refreshing to the eyes.

Approaching the landmark

The dinosaur gatekeeper

Dino-friendly guest

Watching over the place

The refreshing waterfall

Want to take some dip

Pet wannabe

The yellow submarine

Indiana Jones

The safari car

The bomb shooters

There was also a tall golden building in the inner portion of the park but guests are not allowed to enter its perimeter. It is said that it is the house of the Singsons.

The sun rose so proud that day while the sky is blue. It exposed the glory of the Heritage Village – rustic, classy and nostalgic. The only modern touch of this old-looking street are the souvenir shops of colorful stuffs from key chains to wooden crafts.

Vendor mode

Framed up

Bags anyone?

Artshop at Escolta

Souvenir shoppe rumble

Kalesa terminal

Resting place

Vigan metallic tricycle

Beside a mall

Under the blue skies

Where else to go

Backdoor escape

Adding to the ancient-feeling scenery is the kalesa, a famous mode of transportation in this village. We were given option to ride the kalesa for an hour for PhP300 but we opted to take our feet to unravel and discover the beauty of the site.